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Thursday, December 27, 2012

Storm Goddesses's Top Picks of 2012

It's been a great reading year for me in 2012. With reviewing, I've been introduced to many books I may not have discovered otherwise, plus I've visited with favorite authors that I know and love when it comes to their books.

Now, I read 200+ books per year, so it's going to be difficult to pick a few that really stood out, but I'm going to do my best. The order I post these books in are in no particular order. So, let's get this list started!

1. While You Were Dead- CJ Snyder

I can't get enough of romantic suspense, and While You Were Dead was an amazing addition to the genre. When one woman's dead lover shows up alive, things turn out quite....well, interesting. But it's not an easy reunion, for there are people out there to get them. I was up late reading this book, and while I haven't read anymore from the author yet, I do have some in the TBR pile that I can't wait to jump into. Excellent, thrill ride.

2.Barefoot Season- Susan Mallery.

Susan Mallery is a go to author for me. Romance, emotion, and sometimes, a test of friendships. Barefoot Season was no exception....the book stole my heart and the pages flew. You can't go wrong with a Susan Mallery book, plain and simple.

I don't know where to begin with this one....other than WOW. This was my first time reading a book by Sharon Horton, and I was highly impressed. I think I literally was up all night reading this one, and I have a 3 year old son that wasn't happy with me the next day when I was pretty much nodding off after no sleep. Was it worth it? Absolutely. I was blown away by this story. Touching, emotional, and wonderful. The title is very fitting, as there are sparks between the hero and heroine, and the conflict that keeps them apart has the power to make anyone cry, but root for them as well. I can't recommend this book enough. I loved it.

5. Out of the Storm- Allie Harrison

Suspense, and a woman that can't remember her life. The tension is ON in this story! With so many twists and turns, and a bit of a paranormal element, I couldn't put this book down. Riveting characters, tons of mystery, and a HEA that is a challenge in the making. Intense. But wow, what a book. I've never read a book but this author before, but you can bet I'm hooked after reading this one.

6. The Cowboy Singer- Paula Tiberius

I got this for review from a book tour. Once I read the blurb, I was sold. I'm a sucker for singers featured as a hero or heroine. Jimmy Wick is one of the sweetest heroes! He's a big star, and he's got a lot of personal issues, but when he meets April, he is utterly smitten. April has a few issues of her own, and doesn't want to get involved, but how can she not fall for this sweet man? The story follows their lives as things happen and they end up falling so much in love. Very wonderful story with tender moments and smiles.

7. Deliver The Moon- Rebecca J. Clark.

Wow. A second chance story that captivated me. The writing, the plot, the humor, the love and the emotion. Everything was so well blended together and I couldn't get enough. With bittersweet moments, and a great subplot with two secondary characters, I fell in love with this story. You want a book with lots of angst, but a great happily ever after? Right here, baby, right here.

8. Shot Through The Heart- D'Ann Lindun.

From page one, I knew I was in for a ride. I was right. Non stop action, heart pounding suspense, and a villain that is terrifying and made me so sad at the same time. I was literally at the edge of my seat, biting my nails, awaiting the next step. Ms. Lindun did an amazing job with this story.

9. A Deadly Love- Jannine Gallant

Eerie. That's what I have to say. Right from the start. Ms. Gallant sure knows how to hook readers, and that started A Deadly Love. A town in the midst of a serial killer, only gets more tense as the killings keep happening. Can we say heartpounding? Yup. This was one that I read a night...oops...and I had to check the doors and jumped at every little noise...Chilling, riveting read.

10. Barefoot in the Rain- Roxanne St Claire.

You want to talk about angst? Here it is. Jocelyn Bloom was once on the verge of finding love with her best friend, but when a terrible incident happens, she flees. She's brought back home because of scandal, and things aren't as they once were....This is a story about forgiveness, because the one person she can't forgive has changed forever. The subject of this book may be touchy for some, but Ms. St Claire does a beautiful job executing the plot and putting in some heightened emotions. I think this has to be my favorite book by her now. I can't wait for the next installment of the Barefoot Bay Series.

With the amount of books you've read, Nikki...I'm amazed you could narrow down your list! Wow!! Congratulations to all the authors of the books you've listed. And a special Yay & Hug to my buddy, D'Ann! You've earned it!